By that definition, 51 percent of Arizona’s children were living in families that could not afford basic necessities in 2014, according to the center. That figure includes 25 percent of children whose families fell below 100 percent of the federal poverty level.

The federal poverty level is currently $24,600 annually for a family of four.

How to cure poverty

The ultimate solution to poverty and hunger is better paying jobs. People know that. Politicians don’t.

This modern philosophical barrier to using the people’s government on behalf of the people is a national trend. Policies that ignore the needs of people have long been championed by Republicans who wave the Bible and the Constitution, but show little evidence of having read either one.

These rabbit-hole ideas are at odds with our national ideals and history.

It's our heritage

It’s time to reclaim Pride Rock.

As Mufasa said to Simba: Remember who you are. Remember who we are.

The school lunch program dates to 1946, and the summer meals program was created in 1968.

These programs represent our historic and shared values. They are reminders of the America that grew a middle class by treating working people fairly.

Such compassion is needed more than ever now – as working people struggle and their kids go hungry.

That’s why those 1,000-plus summer meals sites are a timely reminder of who we are as a country.